Is this reindeer cat pod crochet pattern beginner friendly?

It’s best for advanced beginners. The stitches are basic, but you’ll do shaping, crochet around a ring, and add pieces like antlers, ears, and a pom pom nose.

What size is the finished cat pod?

The cat pod measures about 13 inches wide/tall and about 12 inches deep. The entrance opening is about 8 inches.

Do I have to use an 8-inch ring or hoop?

An 8-inch ring is recommended for the intended opening size. If you use a different size ring, the entrance size will change and you may need to adjust stitch counts to keep the shape even.

What yarn works best for this cat pod crochet pattern?

Super bulky (#6) yarn works best for a thick, cozy cat cave. Small amounts of brown, black, and red are used for the reindeer details. You can use worsted weight red yarn for the pom pom nose or use bulky yarn for a larger nose.

Can this be used as a small dog bed too?

Yes. This design can work for small pets, but sizing and comfort will depend on your pet’s size and how roomy you want the pod to be.

Can I sell finished cat pods made from this pattern?

Yes. You may sell finished items made from this pattern. Please do not resell or redistribute the pattern itself.

Free reindeer cat pod crochet pattern

Make a cozy reindeer cat pod with this free Christmas crochet pattern. Worked with super bulky yarn, this festive cat cave creates a snug enclosed bed where your cat can nap, hide, and feel secure. The antlers and reindeer details make it a fun holiday project, while the sturdy pod shape works as a cozy cat bed all winter long.

Quick answer:
This free reindeer cat pod crochet pattern is an advanced-beginner project made with super bulky yarn and an 8-inch craft ring. The finished pod measures about 13 inches wide and tall and creates a snug enclosed cat cave or festive Christmas cat bed.

Best use: Cozy cat cave, festive Christmas cat bed, or holiday pet décor
Skill level: Advanced beginner
Yarn: Super bulky weight (#6) for the bed; small amounts of worsted weight for details
Hook size: H-8 (5 mm) or size needed to match gauge
Ring size: 8-inch macramé ring or craft hoop
Finished size: About 13 inches wide and tall, 12 inches deep

Cat pod crochet pattern details

Here’s a quick overview of the materials, sizing, gauge, and pattern notes before you begin.

Skill level

Advanced beginner. This advanced-beginner cat bed pattern uses basic crochet stitches and some shaping.

Crochet project materials needed

Hook size: H-8 (5 mm) crochet hook or mm hook size needed for gauge
Super bulky weight yarn #6 in tan, brown, red (or worsted), and scraps of black. I used 2 skeins of Bernat blanket in the yarn color almond (416 g/15 oz) for the bed.
Worsted weight yarn #4 in red for the nose. I used worsted weight but you can also use super bulky/chunky yarn for the Pom Pom nose.
Pom maker (1.5 inch): You will need a pom pom maker to make the reindeer nose.
Ring/Hoop: You will need an 8 inch macrame ring or craft hoop for the pet bed opening. The ring I used weighs 64 grams.
Tapestry needle: Use this to weave in the ends.
Stitch marker(s): Optional. You can use these to help keep track of your stitches.

PDF version

View a printable PDF file version of this pattern in my Etsy shop: reindeer cat pod crochet pattern

Finished crochet cat pod pattern size

The diy crochet cat bed measures 13 inches wide/tall and 12 inches deep. The entrance opening measures 8 inches.

Gauge

14 single crochet stitches and 11 rounds = 4 inches (10 cm)

Learn how to check crochet gauge before you begin, since gauge affects the finished pod size and shape.

Crochet abbreviations

SC = single crochet
HDC = half double crochet
sc2tog = single crochet decrease
hdc2tog = half double crochet decrease
ch/chs = chain/chains
st/sts = stitch/stitches
SL ST = slip stitch
blo = back loop only
flo = front loop only

Crochet cat pod pattern notes

The cat bed design is written in US terms.
The side facing you is the “right side”.
The stitch count is listed at the end of every round.
Join each round with a slip stitch to the top of the first sc made in that round.
Repeat instructions between the asterisks (*) for the rest of the round.
The chain at the beginning of each round does not count as a stitch.

How to crochet around a ring

To crochet around a ring, make a slip knot and remove the knot/loop from the hook. Pass the knot/loop through the middle of the ring, then insert the hook back into the knot/loop. You are now ready to crochet around the ring.

Christmas crochet cat bed shaped like a reindeer with antlers, ears, red nose, and a cat inside.

Cat pod crochet pattern instructions

When counting your rounds, keep in mind that round 1 is on the ring.

Use tan yarn.

Rnd 1: Make 80 SC around the 8 inch ring and join (80 stitches)

Rnd 2: Ch 1, *2 SC, SC in next 9 sts*, join (88 stitches)

Rnd 3: Ch 1, *2 SC, SC in next 10 sts*, join (96 stitches)

Rnd 4: Ch 1, *2 SC, SC in next 11 sts*, join (104 stitches)

Rnd 5: Ch 1, *2 SC, SC in next 12 sts*, join (112 stitches)

Rnd 6: Ch 1, *2 SC, SC in next 13 sts*, join (120 stitches)

Rnd 7: Ch 1, *2 SC, SC in next 14 sts*, join (128 stitches)

Rnds 8-25: Ch 1, SC in each st, join (128 stitches)

Rnd 26: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 14 sts*, join (120 stitches)

Rnd 27: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 13 sts*, join (112 stitches)

Rnd 28: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 12 sts*, join (104 stitches)

Rnd 29: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 11 sts*, join (96 stitches)

Rnd 30: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 10 sts*, join (88 stitches)

Rnd 31: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 9 sts*, join (80 stitches)

Rnd 32: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 8 sts*, join (72 stitches)

Rnd 33: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 7 sts*, join (64 stitches)

Rnd 34: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 6 sts*, join (56 stitches)

Rnd 35: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 5 sts*, join (48 stitches)

Rnd 36: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 4 sts*, join (40 stitches)

Rnd 37: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 3 sts*, join (32 stitches)

Rnd 38: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next 2 sts*, join (24 stitches)

Rnd 39: Ch 1, *sc2tog, SC in next st*, join (16 stitches)

Rnd 40: Ch 1, *sc2tog*, join (8 stitches)

Sew the last 8 stitches closed with a tapestry needle.

Antlers pattern for the Christmas reindeer cat pod

Free Christmas Cat Pod Crochet Pattern for a cozy reindeer-themed pet bed. Easy and beginner-friendly DIY with super bulky yarn.

Make 4 using brown yarn.

Row 1: Ch 5, HDC in 3rd ch from hook and in each rem ch, turn (3 stitches)

Row 2: Ch 2, HDC in each of the 3 sts, now you will make the 1st antler spike: ch 5, HDC in 3rd ch from hook and in each rem ch (3 stitches + spike w/3 stitches)

Row 3: (no ch) HDC in each of the 3 sts on the main antler, 2nd antler spike: ch 5, HDC in 3rd ch from hook and in each rem ch (3 stitches + spike w/3 stitches)

Row 4: (no ch) HDC in each of the 3 sts on the main antler, 3rd antler spike: ch 5, HDC in 3rd ch from hook and in each rem ch (3 stitches + spike w/3 stitches)

Row 5: (no ch) HDC in each of the 3 sts on the main antler, 4th antler spike: ch 5, HDC in 3rd ch from hook and in each rem ch (3 stitches + spike w/3 stitches)

Row 6: (no ch) HDC in each of the 3 sts on the main antler (3 stitches)

Row 7: Ch 2, HDC in each of the 3 sts, turn (3 stitches)

Row 8: Ch 1, sc3tog, fasten off leaving a long tail for sewing (1 stitch)

Sew the antlers together. Doubling them up makes them stiffer so they stay standing up. Sew the antlers to the top of the cat pod.

Ears pattern for the Christmas reindeer cat pod

Make 2 using tan yarn.

Row 1: Ch 3, 2 SC in the 2nd ch from the hook, 2 SC in next ch, turn (4 stitches)

Row 2: Ch 1, SC in each st, turn (4 stitches)

Row 3: Ch 1, 2 SC, SC in next 2 sts, 2 SC in last st, turn (6 stitches)

Row 4: Ch 1, SC in each st, turn (6 stitches)

Row 5: Ch 1, sc2tog, SC in next 2 sts, sc2tog, turn (4 stitches)

Row 6: Ch 1, SC in each st, turn (4 stitches)

Row 7: Ch 1, sc2tog, sc2tog, turn (2 stitches)

Row 8: Ch 1, sc2tog, fasten off leaving a long tail for sewing (1 stitch)

Sew the ears to the cat pod.

Eyes for the Christmas reindeer cat pod

Use black yarn and a tapestry needle to stitch the reindeer eyes.

Nose for the Christmas reindeer cat pod

Using red yarn, follow these instructions to make the reindeer nose.

Wind the yarn around both arches.
Cut the yarn along the middle gap.
Tie with a piece of scrap yarn.
Open the arches and remove the pom pom.
Trim any loose ends.

Sew the pom pom nose to the reindeer bed.

Finishing the cat pod crochet pattern

Weave in those loose ends, then let your furry friend snuggle up and enjoy their cozy new bed!

Why cats love cozy hideaway beds

Cats naturally seek small, enclosed spaces where they can rest, feel secure, and watch what is happening around them. This crochet cat pod creates a soft, snug hideaway that is perfect for naps and quiet time.

Perfect for Christmas and the holidays

The reindeer details turn this cozy cat bed into a fun holiday project. It makes festive pet decor, a thoughtful handmade gift, and a cute place for your cat to curl up during the winter season. Browse more Christmas crochet decor patterns for additional seasonal projects.

More crochet cat patterns

Browse the gallery below for cozy cat beds, caves, pods, toys, and other free crochet patterns for cats.

More Christmas crochet patterns

Find more festive crochet patterns for handmade gifts, holiday decor, and cozy winter projects.

Let’s connect!

I’d love to see what you’re making! Share your finished project and follow along for more free crochet patterns and tutorials.

📌 Don’t forget to pin this pattern for later!
Happy crocheting! 🧶
— Melissa

Let’s connect!

I’d love to see what you’re making! Share your finished project and follow along for more free crochet patterns and tutorials.

📌 Don’t forget to pin this pattern for later!
Happy crocheting! 🧶
— Melissa